Once Halloween goes by it seems that the holidays just all run together. We now find ourselves at Thanksgiving, a day traditionally set aside to give thanks for all that we have been blessed with. In reality, every day should be Thanksgiving if we truly look at what is good in our lives and give thanks for those things each and every day.

This past year has had its share of good and bad for many people, including me. Facing dad’s Lymphoma diagnosis was certainly not something that I expected. However, seeing him through the path to a stabilizing hemoglobin was not only challenging, but rewarding at the same time as I got to meet and interact with a whole new group of people through the Leukemia and Lymphoma society. The Lightning Community Hero Award opened up new doors and opportunities for the Bring Smiles to Seniors Program. I remained in good health, traveled, got married, am about to become a great uncle for the first time and got to do some wonderful projects side by side with my brother.

When you look back over a year it is incredible how much can get packed in 365 days. When you stay as busy as I do, it is an ever constant challenge to see how much you can pack into a 24 hour day. However, I am thankful for that and all the things that I get to do that keeps my life full, complete and ensures that my soul is nourished.

On Thursday many of us will sit around the table with family and friends, hopefully avoid politics and controversy and have a good meal. Take that time to truly enjoy those you are with. Ask them questions about things in the past that you would want to know while you have them. Hug them, love them and celebrate what it means to be a friend and family member. However, we also know that there are many that aren’t so lucky to still have family around or involved. Remember them, reach out to them and wish them a day of blessings as well.

This Thanksgiving I am especially thankful for all of you. This community of people have come together to deliver almost 33,000 cards this year alone and we aren’t done yet. The holidays are going to put us very close to 36,000 or more. The power of we, coming together for a common cause where there is an enormous amount of need, is truly amazing. Every day I count my blessings for each and every one of you and today I wish you the most amazing Thanksgiving ever.

Have a wonderful day, eat lots of good food, enjoy and love each other and remember to be the reason someone smiles.

Ron